Who hasn’t heard of Winnie the Pooh? Everyone of all ages knows Pooh and all his Hundred Acre Wood friends. That’s one of the things that makes a film like this so wide in its appeal: many age groups can and will relate to it. Families can go see this and everyone will be entertained in some way. Whether it’s the sharp wit and humor in the script, the sweet heartwarming story, or even if you’re just a big Pooh fan, there’s something here for everyone. Essentially, the really good family films are able to entertain the little ones, while simultaneously keeping the older crowd engaged.
Christopher Robin tells the tale of a young boy who would take imaginative adventures with his stuffed friends in the Hundred Acre Wood–that is, until he reached a certain age. They say we all have to grow up sometime and that’s exactly what Christopher Robin did. He grew up and forgot all about his old companions. But his old companions never forget about him, and just like all good friends, they will show up just when you need them to. This is a film about friendship, family, and why it’s so important to do what makes you happy in life. For a film that wants to juggle all that, it does so seamlessly, and manages not to be cluttered or overly heavy.
I was expecting this film to be top notch in many ways, because traditionally Pooh films have been very effective in what they are trying to accomplish. My high expectations were met, in pretty much all areas. The writing is very sharp. It’s full of witty dry humor that is typical Pooh fashion and works so well. You can’t help but laugh at most of the lines delivered by the characters. Then, just when they’ve got you laughing and grinning from ear to ear, there will be an emotional moment that will grab you. But the transition from a funny to more serious tone isn’t jarring. A lot of has to do with the characters. Pooh is just so damn lovable, and when you combine good writing with characters that ooze with appeal, you’re almost guaranteed a quality film. Credit must also be given to Ewan McGregor who plays Christopher, he really embodies the character and threw himself into this role.
It’s true that this kind of story has been told before in previous films. But here it really doesn’t matter because the filmmakers tell this one so well. I think delightful is the best word to describe Christopher Robin. What else would you call a film that practically reaches out and touches your heart? As I left the theater, I thought to myself that is exactly the type of film we need right now. When division is being sown and people are so vehemently hateful towards one another, a film like this is necessary in my opinion.
It’s a delightful, well put together family film that just about anyone can enjoy.
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